The draw between ETB SW Essen and VfL Viktoria Jüchen-Garzweiler was not exactly a footballing treat. Off the pitch, however, there were some exciting surprises.

At Uhlenkrug Stadium, anticipation for the new Oberliga season was huge. All eyes were firmly on the sporting challenge facing ETB SW Essen against the promoted team VfL Viktoria Jüchen-Garzweiler. The scoreless draw was a tough watch, but it was still exciting thanks to the personalities present far from the immediate action.

In Essen, there was a touch of celebrity in the air. In addition to German national team player Selina Cerci, the 322 spectators in attendance were also treated to a glimpse of former Bundesliga and Bochum pro Manuel Riemann at the “Schwatten” stadium.

What was particularly striking about the visit was that the 36-year-old, who is currently without a club, worked very closely with the Garzweiler squad. He was already talking to one or two players during warm-ups. Even during the match, Riemann gave instructions from the stands, most of which were directed at Jüchen goalkeeper Björn Nowicki.

Is the goalkeeper, who was most recently under contract with SC Paderborn in the second division, keeping himself mentally sharp with the Oberliga club? Daniel Klinger, Viktoria’s coach, explained where this connection comes from: “It comes through our goalkeeper coach. The women know each other, and he helps us out a bit in training, giving us input.“

Riemann making a guest appearance in goal? Klinger with a clear statement

He added: ”He’s just someone with a lot of experience who’s played at the top level for years. He can help us as a club and as a team. Of course, we’ll take that with us.”

Riemann, who is currently in rehab following hand surgery, seems to have found his new temporary pastime: “In a way, he’s an assistant coach; he helps us and provides tremendous input.”

When asked whether the 36-year-old might even end up in goal for the Oberliga club in the future, Klinger gave a clear answer: “No, not at all. He won’t be in goal for us. We have three outstanding goalkeepers. So, probably not.”

A charming story surrounding the keeper, who wore the VfL Bochum jersey for nearly a decade. At the upcoming first home game in the Oberliga history of his “new” VfL, Riemann will likely once again be heard cheering loudly from the stands. On August 22, Jüchen-Garzweiler will host VfB Homberg and aims to secure its next points there.